For Immediate Release
January 16, 2007
Contact:
Evan Mendelson
805-544-6016
hotline@slohotline.org
www.slohotline.org
United Way of SLO County
Gives $25,000 to Jumpstart Local 2-1-1
United Way of San Luis Obispo County has given a special $25,000 grant to Hotline of San Luis Obispo County to help with 2-1-1 start-up expenses.
2-1-1 is a nation-wide initiative supported by United Way of America that offers community residents a simple way to access a wide range of localized services, programs and support groups such as childcare, counseling, or senior resources. The line operates 24 hours a day and helps to relieve 911 call volume, which allows for faster responses to real emergencies.
"The United Way Board of Directors is pleased to provide direct support to establish a local 2-1-1 system," said United Way of SLO County Executive Director Charlotte Alexander. "United Way has supported Hotline for many years, and we are excited to play a part in SLO County having a vital and responsive information and referral system."
The 2-1-1 system is currently active in many California regions, including Santa Barbara County and the Bay Area. The California Alliance of Information and Referral Systems projects that 80 percent of Californians will have access to 2-1-1 by the end of 2007.
While preparing for the crossover to 2-1-1, Hotline continues to offer free and confidential information, referral, support and crisis intervention to the residents of San Luis Obispo County through their current phone number: 549-8989 or toll free (800) 549-8989.
For more information about Hotline or 2-1-1, please contact Evan Mendelson at 544-6016 or visit www.slohotline.org.
(Left to Right): UW Board Member Paul Parker, UW Board President Pat
Hedges, UW Board
Member Tony Aeilts, Hotline Board Member Tim Williams, Hotline Executive
Director Evan Mendelson, UW Board Member Barbara Heki, UW Executive Director
Charlotte Alexander, and UW Board Member Tom Lott.
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